"We chose Bernardo Silva" - Andriy Lunin reveals huge risk he took in penalty shootout for Real Madrid
Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin opened up about his heroics for the side against Manchester City in the penalty shootout. The Ukrainian claimed that he had decided along with the coaches that he would stay down the middle for Bernardo Silva's attempt.
Speaking after the game, he said (via Movistar Plus+):
"I needed to take a risk with one of the kicks, we picked one (to stay in the middle) and thank goodness it worked out in our favour," Lunin told Movistar Plus+ with a sigh of relief.
"It's an away Champions League game and we went through a lot of suffering... but I'm very grateful to the team for everything they've fought for. I can't imagine myself running like my team mates did today."
The choice proved to be successful as Silva hit it straight down Lunin's throat, gifting him a simple save. The 25-year-old made another save from Mateo Kovacic's spot-kick, as Real Madrid rallied from Luka Modric's initial miss to take the shootout and the victory.
Early on, the Ukrainian played a massive role in sending the game to penalties as Los Blancos were forced into a highly defensive shape for most of the game owing to continuous pressure from Manchester City. He made eight saves in all, keeping the Spanish giants in the game.
Lunin has stepped in admirably for the side this season after first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went down in pre-season with an ACL injury. While loan signing Kepa Arrizabalaga took on starting duties early on in the season, the 25-year-old has now become a key figure, making 27 appearances across all competitions and keeping 12 clean sheets.
Vinicius Jr cause of concern for Real Madrid despite massive Champions League win
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius was taken off in extra time in the side's Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash against Manchester City with an apparent groin injury.
The incident occurred in the 103rd minute when he was chasing a loose ball alongside City defender Kyle Walker. He fell to the ground in pain, holding the inside of his thigh before being replaced by Lucas Vazquez.
Vinicius has suffered from constant injuries this season, missing close to 15 games for club and country owing to issues with his thigh and hamstring. He has been instrumental for Real Madrid, scoring 18 goals and setting up 10 more in 31 appearances across all competitions.